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Monaco – Buying or Importing a Car

If you’re a foreign national planning to purchase or import a vehicle in Monaco, it’s essential to understand the legal procedures involved. In this article, we’ll cover the steps involved in buying or importing a car in Monaco, along with the necessary paperwork and contact details of relevant government departments.

Buying a New or Used Car in Monaco

Buying a new or used car in Monaco follows a similar process to most other countries. The first step is to find a reputable dealership or private seller. You can browse local classifieds websites or visit authorized car dealerships.

Required Documents for Buying a Car in Monaco

Foreign nationals need to provide the following documents to buy a car in Monaco:

  • Passport
  • Residence Permit or Visa
  • Driver’s License
  • Vehicle Registration Certificate
  • Proof of Insurance
  • Sales Contract

Registering the Vehicle

Once you’ve purchased the car, you need to register it with the Monaco Driver and Vehicle Licensing Office (Service des Titres de Circulation). The registration process involves providing the following documents:


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  • Sales Contract
  • Vehicle Registration Certificate
  • Proof of Insurance
  • Proof of Payment of Vehicle Tax
  • Proof of Identity
  • Proof of Residence

After submitting the necessary documents, the Service des Titres de Circulation will issue you with Monaco registration plates and a vehicle registration certificate.

Importing a Vehicle in Monaco

If you’re planning to import a vehicle to Monaco, there are specific procedures and requirements to follow.

Required Documents for Importing a Vehicle

Foreign nationals need to provide the following documents to import a car to Monaco:

  • Passport
  • Residence Permit or Visa
  • Driver’s License
  • Vehicle purchase invoice
  • Certificate of Conformity (COC)
  • Technical Inspection Certificate
  • Customs Declaration
  • Insurance Policy
  • Proof of Payment of Vehicle Tax

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a Vehicle

  1. Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC) from the manufacturer.

  2. Obtain a Vehicle Purchase Invoice from the seller.

  3. Obtain a Technical Inspection Certificate from a licensed inspection center.

  4. Obtain a Customs Declaration from the Customs Office.

  5. Obtain an Insurance Policy from an approved insurance company.

  6. Pay the Vehicle Tax at the Tax Office.

  7. Register the Vehicle with the Service des Titres de Circulation. Provide all the necessary documents, including the Vehicle Purchase Invoice, COC, Technical Inspection Certificate, Customs Declaration, Insurance Policy, and proof of payment of the Vehicle Tax.

  8. The Service des Titres de Circulation will issue Monaco registration plates and a Vehicle Registration Certificate.

Contact Details of Relevant Government Departments

If you need assistance with the import process, you can contact the following Monegasque government departments:

Selling a Car in Monaco

If you’re planning to sell a car in Monaco, there are specific procedures and paperwork to follow.

Required Documents for Selling a Car in Monaco

When selling a car in Monaco, you need to provide the following documents:

  • Vehicle Registration Certificate
  • Technical Inspection Certificate
  • Sales Contract
  • Insurance Policy

Step-by-Step Guide to Selling a Car

  1. Obtain a Technical Inspection Certificate from a licensed inspection center.

  2. Obtain an Insurance Policy from an approved insurance company.

  3. Complete a Sales Contract with the buyer.

  4. Provide the buyer with the Vehicle Registration Certificate, Technical Inspection Certificate, and Insurance Policy.

  5. The buyer needs to register the vehicle with the Service des Titres de Circulation and obtain Monaco registration plates.

    1. Submit a Notice of Transfer of Ownership to the Service des Titres de Circulation within 15 days of the sale.

    Tips for Selling a Car in Monaco

    Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when selling a car in Monaco:

    • Ensure the Vehicle Registration Certificate and Insurance Policy are up to date and valid.

    • Be honest about the condition of the car and disclose any defects or accidents.

    • Set a fair price based on the car’s condition, age, and mileage.

    • Meet the buyer in a public place and bring a friend or family member for safety.

    • Only accept cash or bank transfer as payment.

    • Once the sale is complete, submit a Notice of Transfer of Ownership to the Service des Titres de Circulation within 15 days.

    Buying or importing a vehicle in Monaco involves following specific procedures and providing the necessary paperwork. As a foreign national, it’s essential to have a Residence Permit or Visa and understand the local regulations. Contacting the relevant government departments can help with any queries or issues during the process. Selling a car in Monaco also involves specific paperwork, and being honest and transparent can ensure a smooth transaction.